Each year, the Medicare Open Enrollment period (October 15 to December 7) gives everyone eligible a chance to review and update their coverage. Unfortunately, it also gives scammers a golden opportunity to prey on people looking to make changes.
What to watch for:
- A call or message from someone saying “you must update your Medicare ID now” or “you’re eligible for a new plan”, especially if they ask you to provide your Medicare number, bank account, or credit-card information. Legitimate Medicare communications come by mail and don’t ask for fees or payment to update your card.
- Spoofed caller ID showing the official Medicare number — but that number can be faked. Always hang up and call the official Medicare helpline at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) if you’re unsure.
- Unexpected texts, emails, or web links that appear official but direct you to enter personal details or pay for what’s claimed to be “enhanced benefits” or “premium ID cards.”
How to protect yourself:
- Never share your Medicare number, Social Security number, or bank credentials in response to an unsolicited call or message. If Medicare wants to contact you, they’ll start by mail — never by a demand call asking for payment or immediate action.
- Use the official sites and resources: check your options at Medicare.gov or call the Medicare helpline directly rather than responding to a communication that unexpectedly pops up.
- If someone claims to be representing Medicare: call the number you know is official (1-800-MEDICARE) rather than using the number they give you.
- Monitor your accounts and statements carefully. If you spot unauthorized enrollments or changes, report them right away to Medicare and to us at Guthrie County State Bank so we can help you protect your finances.
- Help someone who may be vulnerable: older adults, friends, or family who are new to Medicare may be less familiar with the red flags. Go through these protections together.
Why this matters:
Every year thousands of people lose money, identity information, or unrequested coverage changes because scammers exploit the confusion around this period. Staying alert during enrollment season keeps you in control — so you can focus on choosing the right coverage, not fighting a scam.
Stay safe, stay informed and reach out to us at GCSB if you ever have questions or notice something out of place in your accounts.